Bryan Bickell swung the bat with authority, and Patrick Sharp said Friday's experience brought back memories of playing baseball during his youth.

The pair joined Blackhawks teammates Michal Handzus and Sheldon Brookbank to take batting practice at Wrigley Field before the Cubs hosted the Marlins.

Cubs manager Rick Renteria admitted he is not a big hockey fan, but he is aware of the success the Hawks have had in recent years and their impact on the city.

“Is that the hope for us here? Absolutely,” Renteria said. “The process of turning anything around may seem daunting, but you keep chipping away and it would be great for the Cubs to be a part of that championship landscape.”

Friday’s outing was a pleasant diversion for the Hawks players, who are trying to get past their heartbreaking loss to the Los Angeles Kings in the Western Conference finals.